Northwest Harris County – A woman renting a home in Northwest Harris County says a serious bat infestation has taken over her house, and it’s been happening for years.
La’Quoiya Taylor has lived in the rental property for four years, but she says the bat problem has gotten worse in the last two years.
Cell phone videos her neighbors recorded show dozens of bats flying in and out of a cracks on the side of the house.
“The smell is unnerving, it’s embarrassing,” Taylor said.
Taylor said it’s not just the odor inside the house, but the concerns to her and her family’s health that have her considering moving out.
Zach Vandermost, a wildlife specialist with One Critter, inspected the home on Thursday and estimates there are at least 100 bats living in the structure.
“Bats specifically carry diseases that come from their droppings,” Vandermost explained. “A fungus grows on that over time and can cause lung disease or respiratory problems.”
To safely clean the space, Vandermost said he would need to wear a respirator because airborne spores from the bat droppings can be dangerous to breathe in.
The health implications and ongoing stress have left Taylor exhausted.
“Since I’ve been home, I’ve become more tired,” Taylor said.
Despite paying $2,100 per month in rent, Taylor said the landlord hasn’t addressed the problem.
An email from the landlord Taylor shared with KPRC 2 states that a contractor installed a chimney cap, but Taylor said this did not fix the issue.
“For our own health, it would be in the best interest to pursue moving,” said Taylor.
The bill from One Critter to fix the bat problem comes out to about $13,500.
KPRC 2 reached out to the landlord to see if he’ll foot the bill. We’re still waiting to hear back.